It may be almost mid-way through the year, but getting your home ready for the winter is best done in advance in warmer weather for obvious reasons. This post takes a look at how you can look after your roof throughout the year to keep it doing its job and help see you through the winter.
Insulation
Roof insulation is really important when it comes to keeping your home warm and importantly, to help save money on your heating bills. Putting in insulation like the range offered at Burton Roofing for instance, in your loft this year is one of the most money-saving things you can do – if you do nothing else, do this. It snowed as late as April in the UK in 2016, so it’s not just November through to February you have to prepare for.
What types of insulation are there?
- Blanket insulation – it’s made of glass wool from recycled materials, it comes in rolls with foil backing and is the most common form of insulation in domestic settings.
- Mineral Rock wool – a really solid and flame retardant material that can come in range of dimensions
- Sheet insulation – ideal for loft insulation as it lies flat. It is more expensive but it has the potential to pay for itself with the money you can save.
- Loose fill – this type can be blown into cavity walls and fill all the nooks and crannies with ease. It can be made of cellulose, mineral rock wool and fibreglass.
- Sprayed foam –the liquid form of foam is sprayed or poured into cavities filling all the gaps then setting in place. According to Prism Marketing, a service that shows companies how to get spray foam leads, spray foam insulation is “going through the roof” at the moment, the current energy crisis is causing a high demand as winter approaches.
- Prefabricated structural panels – a mixture of orientated strand board (OSB) 4-8” thick cut to any dimensions.
- Rigid foam – this stuff is great for underfloor use and great for lofts – it supports weight and is durable as well as provides acoustic insulation.
What Else Can You Do? Prep Your Gutters
Aside from replacing lost roof tiles and maintaining your windows – double glazed is best – definitely give your gutters some TLC to avoid issues with freeze-and-thaw cracks in winter. Gutter cleaning will require a head for heights, and spending time up a ladder to clear the detritus from the pipes.
Ensure the gutters are securely fastened to the wall before blasting them through with a pressure washer. Inspect the condition to check for holes, leaks and damage and ensure the downspout is routed away correctly. Use silicone sealant to stop leaks where appropriate.
Always check building regulations before you go about any work, and as always, safety first!